Setting clear boundaries without parental monitoring is ineffective at preventing teen alcohol use. At some level, kids appreciate parents who take an active role in their daily activities—it’s very real proof that you love them enough to care about their well-being.

Ask the 5 Ws

1
Where are you going?

2
What will you be doing?

3
Who are you with?

4
When will you be home?

5
Will there be alcohol?

Court-ordered questions

This judge made asking the 5 Ws a court order, and it’s making a big difference in both the courtroom and the home. Knowing that “accountability is key to preventing underage drinking” helps parents stay involved in their teen’s lives, giving them a chance to set boundaries before teens ever face the decision to drink.

Ensure an alcohol-free environment.

Ensure that alcohol is not available to your children at home or from friends, siblings, etc. If they go to a friend’s house, call to make sure parents will be home and there will be no alcohol.

If alcohol appears at a party, instruct your teen that they need to call you, and you will pick them up. Then reward their good behavior.

If you, as an adult, choose to drink, always keep your alcohol locked up and away from your kids and their friends.